There’s a fine line between checking in on the status of your application or your interview and annoying your recruiter. Unfortunately that line varies based on the person you’re working with each time you apply or interview for a job. Sometimes a call is timely enough that your resume goes from the “unsure” to the “yes” pile.

Guidelines for Following Up During Your Job Search

First: if the job posting says “NO CALLS” then do not call. Do not call to see if they received your resume, do not call to see when you will hear back, do not call to discuss the position or ask questions, do not call, do not call, do not call. Unfortunately this leaves you with the only “apply and hope” mode of applying to jobs. Many recruiters use this method since the number of calls they get to follow up on applications is a high volume taking up most of their time.

Second: If the job advertisement does not say “NO CALLS” then calling 3-4 business days after you apply is appropriate. Presenting yourself in a professional manner will do more good than harm. Speaking professionally, having a purpose to the call and ending it quickly are some things to make this call a success.

For example: “Hi this is Tracy Tilly, I recently applied for your Recruiter opening. I wanted to make sure that you received my resume.” (Pause wait for response and make sure you tell them on what day you applied in order for the recruiter to find your resume easily). “Do you need any other information from me?” (wait for response) “Thank you for your time, I look forward to hearing back from you with the next steps in the process.”

Short, sweet, and professional. Your resume will be reviewed and since you presented yourself so professionally, it may get moved up in the pile of “yes.”

Third: Do not call more than once. Unfortunately many job openings do not move very quickly so it’s important to just be patient in your job search. Even though you’re interested in this position make sure to keep your job search going until you accept a job offer. (Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket even if you’re told that an offer is coming: things could still go wrong.)

Another very important thing to remember during your job search, that I don’t need to tell you about, is social media. Social media has already begun changing networking and getting to know others. Make sure to connect with recruiters and potential hiring managers, primarily on Linked In, to showcase your skills and to keep your name at the fore front of their minds. Make sure to not overdo it, connecting with one message is enough. Do not bombard individuals with daily messages which could annoy your new connection! Act professional, beware of what you post online and use your professionalism to get to know employees in your target company. Again, get to know them without overdoing it!

Moderation is key in your follow up practice. Make sure to check in but not so that the recruiter dreads seeing your number on the caller ID.